Anderson Still Pained by England Defeat

Manchester City's new signing Elliot Anderson has admitted that England's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina still pains him. The 23-year-old midfielder is hoping to use the confidence from his performances at the tournament to inspire the start of his Manchester City career.

Why it Matters for Manchester City

Anderson's confidence is likely to be a boost for Manchester City, who are looking to replace Rodri after Barcelona's interest in signing the Spaniard. A new £51m bid was made by the La Liga side on Wednesday, as they try to seal a deal for the 30-year-old.

What Comes Next?

Anderson is likely to make his debut for Manchester City when they play Arsenal in the Community Shield on Sunday at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. He is expected to be part of the plan to replace Rodri in the middle of the park.

Anderson joined Manchester City from Nottingham Forest for what was briefly a record £116m fee for a British player. He is yet to feature for the club under their new head coach, Enzo Maresca, due to his extended World Cup exertions with England.

Anderson's Confidence

Anderson has taken huge confidence from his performances at the World Cup, where he played in a tournament for the first time. He is hoping to use this confidence to inspire his performances for Manchester City.

"I take huge confidence knowing I can perform on a World Cup stage," Anderson said. "I hadn't played in anything as big as that yet. That was a really good test for me."

League Standing

Manchester City finished the 2024-25 season in second place in the Premier League, with 78 points from 38 games. They are currently 7 points behind leaders Arsenal.

Next Fixture

Manchester City's next fixture is against Coventry at home on September 5. They are looking to bounce back from their last two losses, which have seen them lose the last two games in a row.

League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 2nd in Premier League, 78 pts, 23W-9D-6L from 38 games, recent form LDWWD. Goals this season: 77 scored, 35 conceded (+42 goal difference). Title race: 7 points behind leaders Arsenal. Last result: Manchester City 1-2 Aston Villa (2026-05-24). Recent form (last 5): 1W-2D-2L (LLDDW, most recent first); lost the last 2. Next fixture: vs Coventry (at home, 2026-09-05).